Creative ID: 633
Wānaka
My arts or creative practice (including details about my specific focus within that art form/practice and my strengths):
Kei a kōutou ngā maunga titohia, kei a kōutou ngā mata tūpuna, tēnā kōutou. My practice is that of adding value. I am a stone carver who works primarily out of things ‘walked over’. Through my practice, I aspire to reveal ‘inner beauty’, accentuating uncommon characteristics, light, and texture to create meaningful objects that convey story and sentiment. My art represents a love and consideration of people, places, and the stories that connect them.
My track record of experience and success - or the track record of experience and success of the creative or artist that I will partner with:
My work has been displayed and sold at various galleries. I have an established website.
Describe the experience you have had working with children or young people, teaching or facilitating creative processes:
I am a registered teacher – kōhanga reo, primary bilingual, wharekura, years 7–13 reo Māori. Te Ara Reo Māori levels 2–5.
Why I want to be part of the Creatives in Schools programme and how my involvement will link to my creative practice:
I believe in the healing properties of art. The creative process engages us to think laterally and develop new perspectives. To share something as meaningful as taking a stone and turning it into a treasure for a child or the child’s loved one would be a privilege and a contribution that hopefully encourages sentiments of consideration, reflection, and appreciation in our children. I envisage (through this programme) I will be in a strong position to integrate my passion for language, art, and culture in a way that (to schools) is dynamic and unique, leaving students with a meaningful artefact of their learning.